The 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) is set to make history as East Africa, through a groundbreaking joint effort by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, hosts the tournament for the first time. Kicking off tomorrow, August 2, and running until August 30, the competition marks a milestone not only for African football but also for regional unity under the banner of the “Pamoja” bid.
Organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), the tournament exclusively features players competing in their respective domestic leagues, and is widely regarded as a critical platform for showcasing local talent. This year’s edition is also seen as a rehearsal for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which the same trio of nations will co-host.
With 19 teams participating, preparations across the three countries have reached fever pitch. In Kenya, government investment in sports infrastructure has topped Ksh2.58 billion, with final touches being made on key venues. The iconic Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, set to host the final, is reported to be 99 percent complete. Nyayo National Stadium, also in Nairobi, has undergone substantial renovations and stands at 85 percent readiness.
Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, the Creative Economy and Sports, Salim Mvurya, assured the country of its readiness, saying, “Kenya is ready to host the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2025. We’ve made significant progress in preparing stadiums and training facilities. Final inspections were completed in June.”
CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe has expressed confidence in the East African hosts: “I have no doubt in my mind that Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania will host the best CHAN in the history of the competition. The commitment from the governments is truly commendable.”
Kenya’s national team, Harambee Stars, will be making its CHAN debut under the stewardship of South African head coach Benni McCarthy. The team has been drawn into Group A, alongside heavyweights Morocco, DR Congo, Angola, and Zambia. McCarthy has named his final 25-man squad, making three last-minute changes to address fitness concerns. Shabana FC’s Brian Michira, Tusker’s Chrispin Erambo, and Sofapaka striker Edward Omondi have replaced Mohammed Bajaber, Swaleh Pamba, and Brian Musa.
“At this level, you need players who are 100 per cent ready, physically, mentally, tactically,” McCarthy explained. “Michira has shown great vision, Erambo brings balance, and Omondi is a sharp threat up front. They’ve earned their spots.”
Final Harambee Stars Squad – CHAN 2024
Goalkeepers: Faruk Shikhalo, Byrne Omondi, Sebastian Wekesa
Defenders: Siraj Mohammed, Manzur Suleiman, Abud Omar, Alphonce Omija, Sylvester Owino, Mike Kibwage, Daniel Sakari, Lewis Bandi, Kevin Okumu
Midfielders: Chrispin Erambo, Brian Michira, Alpha Onyango, Austin Odhiambo, Ben Stanley, Marvin Nabwire
Forwards: Edward Omondi, Boniface Muchiri, David Sakwa, Ryan Ogam, Masoud Juma, Austin Odongo, Felix Oluoch
The Local Organizing Committee (LOC), chaired by Nicholas Musonye, is in overdrive to ensure the month-long football extravaganza is a logistical success. CAF General Secretary Veron Mosengo-Omba praised the unprecedented collaboration: “Three countries have pooled their efforts and resources to successfully deliver. This is a model Africa must learn from.”
The tournament kicks off tomorrow in Dar es Salaam, where hosts Tanzania will face Burkina Faso in the opening match. Reigning champions Senegal begin their title defense in Group D.
As East Africa readies to shine on the continental stage, all eyes now turn to the region’s pitches, where football, unity, and pride will take center stage.
